THE latest stage in a multi-million pound facelift for a former council estate is under way with work starting on a parade of empty shops and maisonettes.

The £1.3m renovation project has started the transformation into flats.

It is part of a scheme by social housing provider Calico Homes to revamp the Brunshaw Estate in Burnley, which since 2017 has seen £2.5m spent on upgrading run-down properties.

The project on Brunshaw Avenue will see the first-floor three-bedroomed maisonettes refurbished into 10 two-bedroom apartments, each featuring an en-suite bathroom and walk-in wardrobe in the master bedroom, a rear driveway and balcony.

The ground-floor shops will be converted into 10 one-bedroomed level flats with open-plan lounges and white gloss kitchens.

The first phase saw homes in Wycoller Avenue, Downham Grove and Waddington Avenue renovated.

Work on the latest scheme is scheduled for completion by March 31 with a new programme of improvements being prepared to start in April.

Burnley Council leader Cllr Mark Townsend, who represents Brunshaw, said: “I used to live in one of the maisonettes in the 1970s so have a personal interest.

“This is good news for local residents as the empty shops have attracted anti-social behaviour and good news for the new occupants in the future. Calico is doing a great job on Brunshaw,” Cllr Townsend added.

Lisa Bell, Calico Homes development manager, said: “We are delighted to be able to redevelop 20 units on Brunshaw Avenue.

“The condition of the units was detracting from the positive impact being made from the recent improvements made on other parts of the Brunshaw Estate and causing issues around anti-social behaviour to existing residents.

“Calico Homes is always striving to improve the quality of properties in the area.”

Anyone who is interested in renting one of these properties will need to demonstrate that they have a local connection to the Brunshaw area.